Unlock the secret: how to grill flat flank steaks every time

Grilling a perfect flank steak can be a culinary challenge, particularly when it comes to preventing the meat from curling up. This annoying phenomenon can make it difficult to cook the steak evenly and achieve the desired level of doneness. But fear not, fellow grilling enthusiasts! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of keeping flank steak from curling, ensuring you grill a succulent and evenly cooked masterpiece every time.

Understanding the Science of Curling

To effectively prevent curling, it’s essential to understand why it occurs. Flank steak, known for its long, flat shape and parallel muscle fibers, naturally tends to contract when exposed to high heat. As the fibers tighten, they pull the steak inward, causing it to curl up.

Pre-Grilling Techniques

1. Tenderize the Steak: Before grilling, use a meat mallet or tenderizer to break down the tough muscle fibers. This will help prevent excessive contraction and reduce the likelihood of curling.

2. Marinate the Steak: Marinating the steak in an acidic solution, such as lemon juice or vinegar, can further tenderize the meat and help it retain moisture. This will also prevent the steak from drying out and becoming chewy.

3. Score the Steak: Scoring the steak along the grain with shallow cuts will allow the heat to penetrate more evenly and reduce the risk of curling. Make sure to cut against the grain, not parallel to it.

Grilling Techniques

1. Use a Hot Grill: Preheat your grill to a high temperature before placing the steak on it. This will sear the outside quickly, creating a crispy crust that will help hold the steak together and prevent curling.

2. Grill in Zones: Divide your grill into two zones: a hot zone and a cooler zone. Place the steak in the hot zone for a few minutes to sear, then move it to the cooler zone to finish cooking. This will prevent the steak from overcooking and curling.

3. Flip the Steak Regularly: Avoid flipping the steak too often, as this can break down the fibers and make the steak tough. Flip the steak only once or twice during the grilling process, ensuring it cooks evenly on both sides.

4. Use Grill Grates: If your grill has grill grates, use them. The raised bars will help prevent the steak from sticking to the grill and curling up.

Post-Grilling Techniques

1. Let the Steak Rest: Once the steak is cooked to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and juicy piece of meat.

2. Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the steak, cut against the grain to break down the tough muscle fibers. This will make the steak more tender and easier to chew.

Recommendations:

Grilling a perfect flank steak that doesn’t curl up is an achievable feat with the right techniques. By understanding the science behind curling, employing effective pre-grilling and grilling techniques, and following proper post-grilling practices, you can master the art of grilling this delicious cut of meat. So, fire up your grills and get ready to savor succulent, evenly cooked flank steak that will impress your taste buds and make you the grilling hero of your backyard gatherings.

Questions You May Have

1. Why does flank steak curl up when grilled?

• Flank steak curls up due to the natural contraction of its muscle fibers when exposed to high heat.

2. How do I tenderize flank steak before grilling?

• You can tenderize flank steak by using a meat mallet or tenderizer, marinating it in an acidic solution, or scoring it along the grain.

3. What temperature should I grill flank steak at?

• Preheat your grill to a high temperature (around 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit) for searing and then move the steak to a cooler zone (around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit) to finish cooking.

4. How long should I grill flank steak?

• The grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your desired doneness. As a general guideline, grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5-6 minutes per side for medium, and 6-7 minutes per side for medium-well.

5. How do I prevent flank steak from sticking to the grill?

• To prevent flank steak from sticking to the grill, use grill grates or lightly oil the grill grates before placing the steak on them.